The Fair Grove Golf team is off to a strong start. With a mix of experienced upperclassmen and younger improving players, the team is hoping to make this season one of their best.
Golf coach Matt Robertson said the team has been working hard to prepare. “We are preparing for the season by practicing three to four days a week,” Robertson stated. He also explained that practicing at better courses has made a huge difference. “We are now practicing at Payne Stewart Golf Course in Springfield… and we can play all three Springfield municipal courses.” Having access to more challenging courses is helping players improve faster and get used to tournament level conditions.
Instead of just playing full rounds, the team has been focusing on specific skills. Sophomore Brodie Roy said practices have been more focused this year. “We have put our main focus on the range and the putting and shipping green instead of just playing the course” Roy stated. “This has helped us extremely with our short game and our consistency.” These improvements could make a big difference during tournaments, where small mistakes can impact scores.
Other players are working on improving individually. Sophomore Jaxson Phelps said he has been focusing on consistency. “I am preparing for this season by trying to stay constant with my swings and focusing on how to improve my swing,” Phelps said. He also shared that he is most excited for “the tournament at Hidden Valley,” which will be one of the team’s early competitions.
Junior Finnegan Harp said one of the best parts of the season so far has been the team atmosphere. “Tournaments are so much fun with all the fellas” Harp stated. He also mentioned that his favorite part has been “going and playing rounds with coach Rob and him buying burgers.” Moments like these help build strong team chemistry, which can carry over into better performance during matches.
The team is feeling confident going into the season. Coach Robertson said they have several experienced players who have improved a lot since last year and believes they have a good chance to go far. Roy agreed, saying, “I feel like this will be one of the best seasons the golf team has ever had… every person on the team can score in the low 80s.”
With strong preparation, improving skills, and good chemistry, the Fair Grove Golf team is looking forward to a successful season.
